Unlocking China’s Green Development: Key Contributions to Global Climate Action Explained

BEIJING — Recent years have brought intense heatwaves around the globe, showing that climate change is not just a future concern; it’s happening now.

In this context, China stands out for its strong commitment to green development. The country is making significant strides in renewable energy, becoming a leader in the global effort to combat climate change.

So, what has China accomplished? Here’s a closer look at its green journey and its impact on the world.

China’s Green Achievements

China aims to reach peak carbon emissions by 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2060. The country has made impressive progress. By 2021, carbon dioxide emissions per unit of GDP fell by over 50% from 2005 levels, according to recent reports to the UN.

The nation is also becoming greener physically. By 2023, China’s forest coverage reached 25%, with forest stock surpassing 20 billion cubic meters. Its forests and grasslands can absorb over 1.2 billion tons of carbon dioxide equivalents each year, ranking first globally.

In renewable energy, China continues to break records. In the first three quarters of 2024, it added over 200 million kilowatts of new renewable energy capacity, making up more than 80% of all new installations. In 2023, China contributed to 60% of the world’s new renewable capacity, as per the World Energy Outlook 2024.

Clean energy sources generated nearly 40% of the country’s total electricity in 2023—an increase of about 15 percentage points since 2013. China is also reducing energy intensity, seeing a 26% drop since 2012, and leading the market in new energy vehicles for ten years in a row.

Experts note that China’s achievements in green development illustrate its dedication to blending economic growth with environmental responsibility. Naing Swe Oo, a senior advisor, emphasizes that through ambitious goals and efforts to decarbonize industries, China is fostering a more sustainable economy.

Global Green Support

Beyond its borders, China is helping other nations pursue green growth. It has supported clean energy and environmental projects in developing countries for years.

For example, the China-Ethiopia-Sri Lanka Renewable Energy Technology Transfer Project brings 11 green energy solutions to 12 demonstration sites, benefiting over 50,000 people in Sri Lanka and Ethiopia while saving around 157,000 tons of greenhouse gas emissions annually.

Chinese investments have also led to clean energy projects in places like Kazakhstan and Mali. The Zhanatas Wind Farm in Kazakhstan produces 350 million kWh of clean electricity yearly, saving substantial amounts of coal and reducing carbon emissions. Similarly, the Gouina Hydropower Station in Mali generates enough power for 1 million people and significantly cuts carbon emissions in West Africa.

Kenyan economist James Shikwati highlights how China’s sustainable development practices can inspire African countries, suggesting that African collaboration with China on green products would be beneficial.

China holds a dominant position in the global new-energy industry, making 70% of photovoltaic components and 60% of wind power equipment. Its exports of wind and solar products in 2023 helped cut carbon emissions by 810 million tons in recipient nations.

Hoe Ee Khor, chief economist of the ASEAN+3 Macroeconomic Research Office, notes that addressing China’s challenges can also lead to solutions for other countries.

Philip Clayton, president of the US Institute for Ecological Civilization, believes China can play a critical role in fostering a green global civilization through effective technology sharing and free trade.

Looking Ahead

Regardless of global changes, China remains committed to fighting climate change. The country was an early participant in the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change and signed the Paris Agreement.

From 2016 to 2023, China provided approximately $24.5 billion in climate-related funding to developing nations. It actively promotes fairness and equity in global climate governance.

Through the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), China has partnered with the UN to promote green development, signing agreements with numerous countries to support renewable technology projects. Since 2024, China has signed 53 agreements on South-South cooperation with 42 developing nations, implementing nearly 100 climate change projects.

With climate change and sustainable development among its priorities, China’s Global Development Initiative has garnered increasing support worldwide. It boasts over 30 cooperation platforms and has launched more than 1,100 projects aligned with the UN’s sustainable development goals.

China’s commitment to green development positions it as a leader in the global battle against climate change. Its leadership will likely influence future global energy markets and climate policies.